Family Bike Ride Essentials

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Family Bike Ride Essentials

Published on April 9, 2026

5 min read

What to Pack for a Family Adventure on Two Wheels

Family bike riding adventures look different for everyone. Some families love long rides and big days out, others are happiest with short loops and lots of snack stops. Whatever your plan for a family bike ride, packing well can make the day smoother and more fun.

(📸 Pete Scullion)

If you’ve been inspired by the 7stanes in 7 Days film, this guide shares simple and family friendly advice on what to pack for an outdoor adventure. It also highlights some of the brilliant partners, who worked alongside Tracy Moseley and OS Maps to bring the film to life. Haven’t seen the film yet – don’t worry you can watch it in full here – 7stanes in 7 Days film

Start with a simple plan

Before you pack anything, take a few minutes to plan your day. This will help you pack just what you need and nothing more and set you up for the best day about. Think about how long you will be out. Think about the weather and the age of your children. Decide where you might stop for a break. How many snacks might you need? Everyone needs snacks!

If you are looking for ideas on where to ride, OS Maps is a great place to start. Use the app to discover existing routes created by other people, or plot your own. You can explore paths, trails and quieter roads, and clearly see distance and elevation before you go.

A useful feature for families is the ability to toggle the National Cycle Network on the map. This helps you find signposted routes that are often traffic free or quieter, making them a good option when riding with children. You can also drop and save Pins for useful stops along the way, like cafes, picnic spots or play areas, so everyone knows when the next break is coming.

Routes can be saved and downloaded for offline use, which is helpful when heading into forests or areas with poor signal. Planning together helps children feel involved. It sets expectations early and helps the day feel calmer and more enjoyable for everyone.

(📸 Pete Scullion)

Discover Off Road Cycling Routes

The right bike for the right riders

For a two wheeled adventure, the right bike can make all the difference for everyone. For children a bike that fit them well and feels fun to ride will keep spirits high. Hope Academy Bikes are designed with young riders in mind. They are lightweight and easy to handle.

For adults, a reliable and comfortable bike matters too. Trek bikes are built to support long days out, carrying extra kit and keeping a steady pace. If you feel confident on your bike, it helps the whole group feel calmer and more supported.

Before heading out, check every bike. Brakes, tyres and gears are worth a quick look. A short test ride close to home can help spot any issues early.

(📸 Pete Scullion)

Hope Academy Bikes

Trek Bikes

Lights for safety and confidence

Good lights are important, even in daytime. Woodland trails can be dark and weather can change fast.

A bright front light helps children see where they are going. A rear light helps others see them. Lights also help children feel secure if the ride runs later than planned. Pack spare batteries or charge lights fully before you go.

(📸 Pete Scullion)

Exposure Lights

Packs that everyone can carry

Comfortable packs make a big difference. A well fitting backpack will spread weight well and sit comfortably on the body. For families, it helps if everyone carries a little of their own kit.

Younger children can carry a small pack with snacks or a spare layer. Older children can help with water or a map. This builds confidence and helps everyone feel involved.

Make sure packs are adjusted properly. A snug fit stops rubbing and bouncing. Take time to do this at home rather than at the trailhead. And then make sure to fill everyone’s pack with snacks!

Osprey Backpacks

(📸 Pete Scullion)

Snacks that stay fresh and fun

Food is fuel, and for children it is also motivation. Easy snacks keep energy levels up and moods steady. Think about food that is simple to eat. Cut fruit, wraps and flapjacks work well. A warm drink can be a treat on cooler days. Let children help choose snacks before the trip so they feel excited and included.

Snack in style with Dometic

Clothing for changing weather

British weather can change quickly, even in summer. Pack spare layers for everyone. Lightweight waterproofs are useful all year round. Gloves and buffs can help on colder days.

Dress children in layers they can remove easily. This helps them learn how to manage their own comfort. Bright colours make it easier to keep an eye on everyone, especially in busy trail centres.

(📸 Pete Scullion)

Little extras that really help

Some small items can make a big difference. A basic first aid kit is always worth packing. Include plasters, wipes and any personal medication.

A fully charged phone is essential. Download your OS Maps route so you can use it offline. Paper maps are also great, especially for letting children follow along and spot features. Why not follow Tracy and Toby’s lead from the film and plan a short scavenger hunt using OS Maps.

Browse OS Paper Maps

Bringing it all together with OS Maps

OS Maps helps turn a day out into a shared adventure. Let children help choose the route. Use the app to show where you are and what is coming next. Celebrate milestones like reaching a viewpoint or finishing a loop.

Download OS Maps Today

Find out more about 7Stanes in 7 Days

Enjoy the Day!

By packing well and planning simply, family adventures become easier to enjoy. With the right kit and the confidence it brings , you can focus on what matters most. Time outside together, building memories that last longer than the trail. And just like Tracy, James and Toby pack a sense of flexibility. Build in time for breaks, games and exploring. Not every adventure needs to be about distance or speed.

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